Nadiya Bychkova says she 'didnt have to think' about agreeing to her latest role away from the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom.
Fans best know the professional dancer, who is a multiple-time Slovenian Ballroom and Latin Champion and two-time World and European Champion in '10' Dance, for being part of the hit dance show, having joined back in 2017.
She also holds two Guinness World Records at Strictly's Pro Challenge for the most dance steps in 30 seconds - for fleckerls in 2020 and pat-a-cakes in 2021.
But away from her dancing prowess, Nadiya has landed herself a new role, and it's another close to her heart.
She has been announced as the newset ambassador for Bright Young Dreams, the children’s mental health campaign founded by Olympic champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill.
The campaign, which works in partnership with Sheffield Children’s Hospital and Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, supports young people struggling with emotional wellbeing and mental health challenges — helping to open up vital conversations, build resilience, and spark brighter futures.
Nadiya joins a growing roster of Bright Young Dreams ambassadors, including broadcaster Dan Walker, comedian Jon Richardson, and England footballer Lucy Bronze.
To launch her involvement, Nadiya took part in a heartfelt interview — not with a journalist, but with her eight-year-old daughter Mila.
The two shared a warm and playful conversation about everything from feelings and mental health to motivation, dreams, and what Nadiya was like growing up.
A video of their chat was shared on social media and Nadiya's Strictly co-stars were quick to respond. Katya Jones gushed: "What a beautiful bond." Johannes Radebe shared: "Gorgeous." Singer Alexandra Burke replied: "I’ll be forever proud of my girls."
"As a parent, I see every day how important it is to talk about emotions and mental wellbeing and how easily children can bottle things up," Nadiya said.
"Bright Young Dreams is such a special campaign because it gives kids the space and tools to express how they’re feeling. When I was asked to be an ambassador, I didn’t even have to think about it. And to launch it all by being interviewed by my daughter? That made it even more meaningful."
Founder Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill added: "We’re thrilled to welcome Nadiya to the Bright Young Dreams family. She brings warmth, relatability, and an amazing personal story. Her bond with Mila really shines through in the interview, and we hope it inspires."
